Colleen and Family, 

My heart is heavy thinking of you all in the wake of such an incredible loss. As a mother and Cougar alum, I'm so sorry that Luke is gone. It's so inspiring to see his legacy and read the comments of all of the lives he touched. Know that we'll continue to honor him in the years ahead, so his memory will persist. 

Dear Tyler family, 

I'm at a loss for words to convey how sorry I am about Luke. Such heartbreaking news. Even in the short time I have known you Colleen, I have seen your face light up when you talk about your family, and I've heard the love in your words and voice. You are in my thoughts. My deepest sympathy. Sian

I knew Luke through the stories of Colleen, shared during my now six years of working with her. My wife and I raised four children, now adults, so it has been fun to relive the teenage years through all of Colleen's stories. My favorite was a time when Luke was 16 and not yet driving, so Colleen chaperoned (aka drove) Luke and his date (I think it was to a movie). 

Colleen shared the overhead conversation in the back seat, and I remember laughing with her as she retold the experience. I have heard dozens of these stories over the years and knowing Colleen as I do, I cannot imagine a mother loving her two boys more than she loves Luke and Josh. I know, even now, that mother's unfailing love endures for all of eternity, and I am sure still surrounds Luke.

Dear John, Colleen, and Josh,

I remember Luke fondly from his days at Cedar Crest Academy. I can just hear his sweet voice and see his eager eyes ready to learn in class. I also remember his kind spirit, he was a good friend. It is evident that kind spirit is a gift that God gave him and that kindness stood out to others his whole life. I have taken time to read over all of the stories and memories in this memorial. It is clear your son left an impact on so many lives. His spirit of kindness lives on. I’m incredibly sorry for your loss, Luke was so special. 

Sincerely,

Sarah Allard

Our boys were roommates at WSU. While they weren’t super close, and I never met Luke, our heart’s completely shattered when we got the call. We’ve been thinking about your family non-stop since.

I wish I had more words to express how deeply sad we are, and the hurt we feel for your family. We’re still struggling to process the reality of this, as I’m sure you are too 💔 

Praying for comfort, peace and healing for everyone effected by Luke’s loss ❤️ 

Dear Tyler Family: It is with deep compassion and a heavy heart that I send my condolences for Luke's passing. I will continue to pray for strength and peace in this time of unimaginable pain and healing. 

Colleen- While I only met Luke through stories shared, I know how deeply he was loved, and how much he loved back. I will always picture him as the bright, kind, charming, young man he was- who made his mom both laugh at the innocence of his young adult adventures, and beam with pride of his independent and kindhearted spirit.

You are so loved- and may this love help be your buoy in times of need. 

"If ever there is tomorrow when we're not together... there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we're apart... I'll always be with you." -A.A. Milne

My deepest sympathy,

Lauren Holland

Colleen and family, I am shattered and heartbroken learning of Luke's passing.  My condolences during such a difficult time, so sorry for your loss.

Kirk

A song about heaven for comfort for his family and friends. He is in heaven which is the only comfort. 

Colleen, John, and Josh, we are so deeply saddened by Luke's passing.  It is so obvious how close your family is and how proud you are of this caring and compassionate kiddo and brother.  Your conversations and reflections, in remembrance of Luke, will be your gift moving forward of this beautiful soul.

We didn't have very many personal interactions with Luke, as your neighbor, other than kids playing together when they were younger, but we will always remember how incredibly poised and professional he was when he started that neighborhood lawn mowing business.  He ended up reaching his goals and his dream of buying his own car, and I recall the pride you had, Colleen, in sharing that information with us one day.  He was a kid with a great future, to be sure.

We are praying for your family.

With love and compassion,

Cristy, Greg, Gregory and David

Dear Colleen, John & Josh - I wish there were words that were enough to begin to measure or express our heartfelt condolences for the loss of your beautiful son & brother Luke. Wishing you peace to bring some comfort, courage to face the days ahead and the continuation of his loving memories to forever hold in your heart. All the love and light from our family to yours.  

- The Combs Family